Primer, dehydrator or bonding gel? Differences and selection
I'll show you how dehydrators, primers, and adhesion gels differ and what to consider when choosing.
For preparation, you choose either a dehydrator or primer; this is followed by the appropriate adhesion gel. Dehydrators and primers are alternatives for preparation and are not used as two consecutive mandatory steps. The adhesion gel then forms the cured adhesion layer beneath the subsequent gel build-up. In the nailARTS THIN BASE category, you'll find Nail Fresh Dehydrator, ProPrime Step 1, and ProBond Step 2.
What does "adhesion promoter" mean?
In everyday studio practice, the term is used for different adhesion products. It can refer to a primer, but also to an adhesion gel. Therefore, if you're looking for an adhesion promoter, the first question is: Do you need a preparatory primer or a curable gel adhesion layer?
Dehydrators, Primers, and Adhesion Gels Compared
| Product | Function | nailARTS Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Dehydrator | Temporarily removes moisture and oils from the nail surface; air-dries | Nail Fresh Dehydrator |
| Primer | Preparatory adhesion promoter before the gel adhesion layer | ProPrime, Step 1 |
| Adhesion gel | Curable adhesion layer forming the foundation of the build-up | ProBond, Step 2; DM Bond |
THIN BASE: View Dehydrators, Primers, and Adhesion Gels
What is a dehydrator used for?
Nail Fresh Dehydrator temporarily removes moisture and oils from the nail surface. It is suitable for normal to damp nails and air-dries. If you choose a dehydrator for preparation, it is applied in a thin layer after nail preparation. This is followed by the appropriate adhesion gel.
Dehydrator or primer: You choose one of the two preparatory options. Dehydrators and primers are not combined. Neither replaces the subsequent adhesion gel.
My personal preference: I have been working in this profession for over 17 years and personally always use primer instead of dehydrator. This is my preferred method and not a requirement for others. A dehydrator is an excellent product when used correctly. The key factors are proper application, the condition of the nails, and your own working method.
Which adhesion gel is right for your nails?
ProBond Keratin: extremely low viscosity, for all nail types
ProBond Keratin is an acid-free, extremely low-viscosity adhesion gel with keratin. It is suitable for all nail types. Its liquid consistency also allows it to be used as a base for wet-on-wet designs.
ProBond Fiber: medium viscosity, for normal to hard nails
ProBond Fiber contains fine fiberglass fibers and is recommended for normal to hard nails. It can be used as an adhesion layer and, after curing, additionally as a strengthening layer.
DM Bond: flexible, especially for soft natural nails
DM Bond is a flexible, removable soak-off base. It is suitable for all nail types and is particularly interesting for soft natural nails or when increased adhesion is required. DM Bond can be used both as a base for gel polish manicures and as an adhesion gel beneath a standard gel build-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use a dehydrator and primer together?
No. For preparation, use either a dehydrator or primer. This is followed by the appropriate gel adhesion layer. I personally prefer primer. This preference is not mandatory for others; when used correctly, a dehydrator is also a good choice.
Can I use ProPrime instead of ProBond?
No. ProPrime Step 1 is used before ProBond adhesion gel and does not replace the curable adhesion layer.
Is every product in a brush bottle a gel polish?
No. The packaging alone says nothing about the product's function. A brush bottle may contain, for example, primer, adhesion gel, build-up gel, gel polish color, or top coat. The product type and application instructions are what matter.
Can I use DM Bond under build-up gel?
Yes. DM Bond can be used as a flexible adhesion layer beneath a standard gel build-up, especially for soft natural nails or adhesion issues.
How do I choose between the adhesion gels?
When choosing, I consider the natural nail, the desired flexibility, and the planned build-up. If you would like advice, feel free to ask Ronica, our nailARTS AI advisor, and describe which system you currently use and where problems occur.
Compare adhesion gels and primers
This guide is intended for professional users. For preparation, application, and curing, follow the instructions for the respective product as well as the application and safety instructions.
